The reading will be directed by Lynnea Benson, Artistic Director of Frog and Peach Theatre Company. Its running time will be approximately 1 hour, 20 minutes (plus intermission).

Darrell Hammond is known to TV watchers as a member of Saturday Night Live's ensemble, but in Frog and Peach benefits, he has been displaying his Shakespeare chops. He played Guildenstern in their reading of "Hamlet" in February, 2012 and Edgar in "King Lear" last July. Austin Pendleton, a frequent star of Shakespeare in the Park, played Claudius and the Ghost in Frog and Peach's "Hamlet" reading last July. Ian McDonald composed and performed live scores for both of those readings.

The Gala will benefit Frog and Peach Theatre Company's upcoming production of "Titus Andronicus," to be presented April 25 to May 19, 2013 at The West End Theatre, 263 W 86th Street.

Frog & Peach Theatre Company (www.frogandpeachtheatre.org), founded in 1996 by members of The Actors Studio, brings modern audiences all the excitement and intrigue of Shakespeare's plays in an accessible, entertaining way. Benefit proceeds support free and discounted tickets to Frog & Peach Main Stage productions for under-served public school students in Upper Manhattan & the Bronx.

The Players Club at 16 Gramercy Park South (East 20th Street between Third Avenue and Park Avenue South) is a New York Landmark renowned for its beauty, luxurious decor, and rich theatrical history.

The gala is Tuesday, February 26 at 7:30 PM, with cocktails available at 6:45. The Players Club is located at 16 Gramercy Park South. Doors open at 6:45 PM. Tickets are $99 in advance and $149 at the door. To order, visit www.smarttix.com or call (212) 868-4444.